Just as Mr. K.M.Soni last
escort vehicle left, I noticed a man coughing vigorously because of the smoke
and dust that the series of corollas and innovas had left behind. A second
glance at that man left a mark in my brain. His physique told a tale that
was quite contradictory to the politician who just left.
He
was very much a bag of bones and hollow cheeks often rubbing his tired
face on the loose sleeves. I can still remember his sunken eyes that
told a story of its own-a story of struggle and Satyagraha. They were
magnified so shoddily with the spectacles he wore. Those eyes still held the
hope - hope for a change...
Then
I noticed the little board he was carrying and the contents it held "Water for Tamilians & safety for
Malayalees”.
I
was still coming out of the Christmas hangover even though it was
past noon. Thanks to my dear Amigos who always ensure that I keep on floating
in the dream world for at least 14 hours especially because now I am a free
bird with no more court martial at home. And I could not blame them completely;
last night was too icy as well.
As I crossed the same place
the next day, my eyes still searched for him. I don’t precisely know the reason
though. .I found some newspapers, spectacles and a pair of shoes, unattended
and shattered.
“Oh my god, what a night it
was?! It’s the first time, may be the record low I ever hit. Just now I managed
to start my jeep. Horrible! ” I overheard someone.
My wait was meaningless,
though digested slowly, mechanically I was walking towards my car.
Poor guy! Why and for
whom?
For the 3.5 million
innocents, who will get swept away in their sleep, from earth within no time?
Or, was that for the political opportunist, the puppet-show masters?
Its getting late for
me, miles to go…
Then, you won the
world with AHIMSA but now..?!
I am hoping for a better
tomorrow and gearing up; and I have taken good care of the spectacles and the
old board placed over side seat.
My journey continues...
Translation: Anju Thomas
Translation: Anju Thomas
